Georgia considers ending daylight saving time changes permanently
ATLANTA — Georgia lawmakers are considering legislation that would end the state’s practice of changing clocks twice a year, potentially keeping the state on daylight saving time permanently.
The proposal, which has gained momentum in the state legislature, would eliminate the biannual time changes that currently occur in March and November. Under the plan, Georgia would maintain daylight saving time year-round, meaning later sunrises but extended evening daylight during winter months.
State Representative Donna McLeod, who has championed similar legislation in previous sessions, said the change would benefit public health and economic activity. “The constant switching back and forth disrupts sleep patterns and has negative impacts on our citizens’ well-being,” McLeod said.
Federal Approval Required
Any change to Georgia’s time observance would require federal approval from Congress. Currently, states can opt out of daylight saving time and remain on standard time year-round, as Arizona and Hawaii do, but federal law prohibits states from staying on daylight saving time permanently.
The Sunshine Protection Act, federal legislation that would make daylight saving time permanent nationwide, has stalled in Congress despite passing the U.S. Senate in 2022. Without federal action, Georgia’s proposed change cannot take effect.
“We’re essentially putting ourselves in line for when federal law changes,” said state Senator Elena Parent, a co-sponsor of the Georgia legislation. “Multiple states are taking this approach.”
Health and Economic Impacts
Medical experts have long criticized the practice of changing clocks twice yearly. Dr. Sarah Chen, a sleep specialist at Emory University Hospital, said the transitions can disrupt circadian rhythms and lead to increased rates of heart attacks, strokes and accidents.
“The research is clear that these time changes have measurable negative health effects,” Chen said. “A permanent time would be better for public health.”
Business groups have also expressed support for eliminating time changes. The Georgia Chamber of Commerce estimates that companies lose productivity during transition periods as employees adjust to schedule changes.
What It Means for Georgians
If implemented, permanent daylight saving time would mean significant changes to daily life in Georgia. During winter months, sunrise would occur as late as 8:30 a.m. in Atlanta, but sunset would not happen until after 6 p.m.
Parents and school districts have raised concerns about children waiting for school buses or walking to school in darkness during winter mornings. The Georgia Department of Education has not taken an official position on the proposal.
Supporters argue the extra evening daylight would benefit retail businesses, outdoor recreation and reduce energy consumption for lighting.
The Georgia legislature is expected to take up the measure during the 2024 session, which begins in January. Similar legislation has been introduced in more than 30 states, though none can implement changes without federal approval.
Sources: ajc.com
